Hello Bicester!
Hope our week is off to a good start. There is a lot going on in town, and a few easy ways to join in, even if you only have an hour.
Here is what’s been happening lately, plus what’s coming up soon.
Top Stories
Local Plan hearings start this week.
Cherwell District Council shared that public hearings for its Local Plan Review 2042 begin on Tuesday 17 February, with the first sessions set to run to Friday 20 February. If you’re curious about where new homes, jobs, and local services could go over the next few years, this is one of the main “check and challenge” steps in that process. The hearings take place in the council chamber, and because seats are limited, residents can also watch online. More sessions may follow in the summer, so this is a good moment to get familiar with what the plan covers.
A fresh update on local government changes.
The council also posted an update on local government reorganisation, looking at why West Berkshire and Oxfordshire could make sense as part of the current consultation. If you like to keep up with how local services might be run in future, it’s worth a quick read.
Community Buzz.
If you’ve ever thought “I wish I knew what was being planned before it’s too late,” the Local Plan hearings are a practical way to listen in and learn, without needing to speak up in public. Also, the Launton Village Players pantomime is set up as a feel-good one, with profits going to Dementia Active and Dementia Oxfordshire.
Business Beat
The Friday market was a simple way to support local traders while you grab basics, and the council’s market page lists everything from fruit and veg to hot food and cakes. If you’re after an easy night out in town in the future, remember Bicester Village was running a ticketed dinner-and-film evening on 15 February
Council Corner
Cherwell says the Local Plan Review 2042 is meant to guide development while protecting heritage assets, green spaces, and biodiversity. The council also notes that the plan has already had four public consultations, and the inspectors will review both the plan and the feedback that residents have sent in.
Closing Note
If you do one thing this week, pick one local item: watch a bit of the hearings online, pop into the Friday market, or book a seat for the pantomime.
If you tell me what days you’re free and who you’re planning for (kids, friends, solo), I’ll suggest a simple mini-plan for the week ahead.
UPCOMING EVENTS
This Week & Next
Local Plan Review 2042 hearings - Tue 17 Feb to Fri 20 Feb (in the council chamber, with an online viewing option).
Family pantomime at Cooper School – Wed 18 to Sat 21 Feb
Launton Village Players will stage their 39th family pantomime at Cooper School Performance Hall on Churchill Road, Bicester, from Wednesday 18 to Saturday 21 February 2026, with shows at 7:30pm each evening.
The production is described as suitable for all ages, with family ticket discounts and all profits going to Dementia Active and Dementia Oxfordshire.Bicester Friday Market - Every Friday, 9:00am to 4:30pm, Sheep Street (around 20 stalls).
New Moon Sound Bath – Tue, 17 Feb, 7:30 PM
Bicester East Community Centre
Relaxing sound‑bath session open to residents looking for a calming evening.Badgers Basketball 5v5 Games – Tue, 17 Feb, 7:00 PM (and later dates)
Whitelands Academy, Bicester
Informal 5‑on‑5 basketball for adults, organised by the local club.Youth Activators Holiday Activities – Wed, 18 Feb, 11:00 AM
West Bicester Community Centre Park
Free or low‑cost activities for young people during the February break.Fun Train Play Session – Sunday, February 22 (11:00 AM to 12:00 PM) Build a HUGE train track with bridges and tunnels. Kids can play free with trains and ride on trains too. Tickets required but sibling discounts available. Very limited spots left, so book now!
Coming Late February and After
Enhanced Overdose Management training – Wed 4 Mar
“Enhanced Overdose Management – CYP Professionals – North Oxfordshire” takes place on Wednesday 4 March at 10:00am at Kingsmere Community Centre in Bicester. The Eventbrite listing notes it is for professionals working with children and young people who want to build skills and confidence around this topic.Bicester Motion Scramble – Sunday, April 26 The future mobility estate opens its doors for a special event. More details coming soon.